6 popular midlife crisis cars

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When that midlife crisis hits and you realize you haven't checked off even half the things on your bucket list, there are worse things you could do than splurge a little of that hard-earned cash on a 2018 sport or luxury car.

If you've been good and frugal up until now and can afford the car payment (and the insurance), the following will serve as a solid short list of vehicles to consider buying. While being just fast enough to whet that adrenaline-junky whistle, they're also more affordable than their sporty big brothers like the Ferrari and the Lamborghini. And hopefully, their horsepower won't overcome your self-control when it comes to driving safely (and within the speed limits).

Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Stingray

MSRP from $66,235

For speed and luxury, you can't beat the Corvette 3LT Stingray with an interior wrapped in leather and an engine that packs a powerful 460 hp. It includes a 3-D GPS navigation system, a performance data recorder to help you make sure the engine is operating at its best, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. Go ahead, crank up your tunes and roll down your windows. This is enjoying your midlife crisis in style.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible

MSRP from $68,495 (depending on optional packages)

Residents of states with warm climates might prefer the Chevy Camaro ZL1 convertible for its speed, horsepower, and power-folding convertible top which can be lowered even when you're driving — up to 30 mph. It comes supercharged with a 6.2L V8 engine, according to chevrolet.com, and features a robust 650 hp. If manual shifting isn't for you, you'll likely appreciate the option to get it with a paddle-shift 10-speed automatic transmission.

Of course, it also features all the tech gadgets you could want, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Chevrolet MyLink and an 8" color touchscreen.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody

MSRP from $71,495

It doesn't get any more American than this supercharged muscle car — the Hellcat — with 707 hp and the kind of presence that makes passersby stop and stare. You can also get it with optional widebody flares reminiscent of the new 2018 Challenger Demon. And since the sparse stock of 3300 Demons is basically already sold out, you get a piece of that action without paying the same price. Road and Track points out you'll also find the wider 205/25 Pirelli P-Zero tires make it more maneuverable than ever, though with its impressive girth the Hellcat performs at its best when it's got a wide-open road ahead of it.

Ford Mustang GT350 Shelby

MSRP from $49,995

Firing up the V8 motor of your Mustang Shelby for the first time is sure to get any autophile's heart pumping. The 2018 GT350 features what Ford calls the MagneRide Damping System, which "monitors and adjusts itself one thousand times per second." Plus, this Shelby includes a 10-speed paddle shifter, Recaro racing seats and a spine-tingling 526 hp. Can you hear that engine growling already?

Mazda MX-5 Miata

MSRP from $28,800

It might not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of sport or luxury, but this dynamic, quick little car offers a lot of bang for your buck. Not only does it get 35 highway mpg, but its balance and performance are legendary.

"It is a perfectly balanced car that makes driving it (feel) like a go-kart," Jeff Sporleder, president of the Windy City Miata Club, told the Chicago Tribune. You'll also get 155 hp for cruising around town and a sleek, luxurious body style that will leave the younger crowd wishing they had an excuse like a midlife crisis to indulge in their own Miata purchase.

Porsche 718 Boxster

MSRP from $57,400

Porsches have long been recognized as the go-to car when it comes to midlife crisises. The Boxster offers the best of what Porsche offers while being slightly more affordable than other Porsche cars of its class. Its 300 hp and 4.9 second 0-to-60 mph speed make it a perfect car for tooling around at the track, while not tempting you too painfully on the highway.

The 718 Boxster's design puts the engine no more than a foot behind the driver, according to Porsche, giving it a low center of gravity with extraordinary cornering. Its lightweight frame is another part of the secret to its speed and handling.

Whatever car you purchase, stay safe on the roads by committing to ending text wrecks. Check out the End Text Wrecks website to find out more about why keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road are crucial to driving safely.